In a recent development, the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CCENRO), in collaboration with the Office of the Building Official (OBO), has identified potential violations of city ordinances at the Monterrazas de Cebu project located in Barangay Guadalupe. This follows a joint inspection conducted on January 12, 2026, as mandated by a Sangguniang Panlungsod resolution calling for further investigation into alleged breaches at the high-end residential development along Monterrazas Road.
Drone Surveillance Uncovers Extensive Earth-Moving
According to official reports, inspectors from CCENRO and OBO utilized drone surveillance to thoroughly assess the site. While no ongoing construction was observed under the existing building permit for multi-storey residential dwellings, the inspectors noted significant earth-moving activities taking place. These activities involved large-scale excavation covering several hectares, as captured in drone footage that showed heavy equipment such as backhoes and trucks in operation.
Developer Claims and Inspector Findings
Representatives from Monterrazas de Cebu informed the inspectors that construction had been halted since November 2025 due to a work stoppage order issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). They asserted that only repairs to retention ponds were permitted at the time. However, the drone evidence contradicted this claim, revealing clear signs of extensive soil removal that exceeded what would be necessary for backfilling purposes.
CCENRO officials insisted that, despite Monterrazas de Cebu's statements, the volume of excavated soil appeared larger than required for retention pond work. This led inspectors to suspect that soil hauling outside the site might have occurred without proper authorization.
Potential Ordinance Breaches Identified
Based on preliminary findings, CCENRO reported that Monterrazas de Cebu failed to obtain Special Hauling Permits from the Cebu City Mining Regulatory Board (CCMRB), as required under City Ordinance No. 2115 for the transport and disposal of soil and minerals. Additionally, there are concerns about compliance with City Ordinance No. 2623, which regulates earth-balling and tree-cutting activities, raising further environmental and regulatory questions.
This inspection highlights ongoing scrutiny of development projects in Cebu City, emphasizing the importance of adhering to local laws to protect natural resources and ensure sustainable urban growth. The findings may lead to further investigations or penalties, depending on the outcome of follow-up assessments by city authorities.
